Ancient Kourion, Kolossi Castle, Omodos & Winery Tour – Paphos

Embark on an enriching journey through the stunning landscapes of Cyprus with the Ancient Kourion, Kolossi Castle, Omodos & Winery Tour. This immersive experience takes visitors to the captivating Greco-Roman ruins of Kourion, showcasing its well-preserved amphitheater and ancient marketplace. Explore the historic Kolossi Castle, a testament to Crusader architecture, before wandering the charming village of Omodos, home to the Monastery of the Holy Cross. The day concludes with a delightful wine tasting at a local winery, paired with a traditional Cypriot lunch. With so much to discover, this tour promises an unforgettable exploration of Cyprus’ rich cultural heritage.

Key Points

• Explore the well-preserved Greco-Roman ruins of Kourion, including an ancient amphitheater and panoramic views of the Mediterranean.
• Tour the Crusader-era Kolossi Castle, known for its medieval architecture and panoramic vistas.
• Visit the picturesque Omodos village, home to the Monastery of the Holy Cross and renowned for its artisanal workshops and Commandaria wine.
• Enjoy a guided winery tour and tasting to discover Cypriot winemaking traditions.
• Savor a traditional Cypriot lunch paired with fine regional wines as part of the comprehensive tour package.

Tour Overview

The tour takes visitors from Limassol to explore the highlights of Paphos, Cyprus, including the archaeological ruins of Kourion, the medieval Kolossi Castle, the picturesque village of Omodos, and a local winery.

At the Kourion archaeological site, you will discover the restored Greco-Roman amphitheater.

The tour then moves on to Kolossi Castle, a historic Crusader-era fortress.

Next, visitors will explore Omodos, known for its Monastery of the Holy Cross.

The final stop is a local winery, where guests can sample wines paired with a traditional Cypriot lunch.

This well-rounded tour provides an immersive experience, blending ancient history, medieval architecture, and contemporary culture.

Inclusions

This tour includes a local lunch paired with wine, as well as round-trip transfers from selected hotels. Admission fees to all sites are also covered, and a knowledgeable guide accompanies participants throughout the day.

The inclusions of this tour ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience:

• Savor a delicious local lunch, expertly paired with the region’s finest wines.

• Relax as you’re transported to and from the tour sites, with no need to worry about logistics.

• Gain valuable insights from the tour guide, who’ll share their expertise on the historical and cultural significance of each destination.

With these thoughtful inclusions, travelers can focus on seeing the rich history and scenic beauty of Cyprus.

Pickup Information

Pickup for the tour is from selected hotels, with the exact time and place confirmed via email after booking. Guests should make sure to check their inboxes for this important information.

If no confirmation is received 48 hours before the tour, travelers are asked to contact the tour operator. This ensures the pickup logistics are clear and everyone arrives at the starting point on time.

The tour departs at 8:00 am, so it’s crucial that guests arrive at their designated pickup location ready to go.

With a maximum group size of 25, the tour provides an intimate experience exploring the ancient ruins, historic castle, charming village, and local winery.

Important Details

With a start time of 8:00 am, guests should plan to arrive at their designated pickup location ready to embark on the tour.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnant individuals, or those with serious medical conditions. Appropriate attire is required, as knees and shoulders must be covered – no shorts or sleeveless tops are permitted.

This small-group tour is capped at 25 travelers, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.

Highlights of the day include:

• Exploring the archaeological ruins of Kourion, including the well-preserved Greco-Roman amphitheater.

• Discovering the medieval Kolossi Castle, a remnant of the Crusader era.

• Visiting the charming village of Omodos and its historic Monastery of Holy Cross.

Kourion Archaeological Site

Located along the southern coast of Cyprus, the ancient ruins of Kourion offer visitors a captivating glimpse into the island’s rich Greco-Roman heritage.

Encompassing a sprawling archaeological site, Kourion’s highlights include a remarkably well-preserved Greco-Roman amphitheater that once hosted public performances and events.

Visitors can explore the remains of the city’s ancient marketplace, baths, and basilica, all of which provide insight into the daily life and architecture of this important coastal settlement.

The site’s panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and surrounding countryside add to the overall enchantment of exploring these evocative ruins, which stand as a testament to Cyprus’ storied past.

Kolossi Castle

Towering over the surrounding landscape, Kolossi Castle stands as a striking reminder of Cyprus’ medieval heritage. This imposing fortification, dating back to the Crusader era, commands attention with its robust stone walls and sturdy defensive architecture.

Visitors can explore the castle’s well-preserved interior, which includes:

• The Grand Master’s Tower, a prominent feature offering panoramic views of the countryside

• The Knights’ Halls, where the military orders once held court

• The Chapel, a beautifully decorated sanctuary that showcases the castle’s religious significance

As a testament to Cyprus’ rich history, Kolossi Castle provides a captivating glimpse into the island’s medieval past and the strategic importance of its geographic location.

Omodos Village

Nestled in the heart of the Troodos mountain range, Omodos is a picturesque village that invites visitors to enjoy the rich tapestry of Cypriot culture and history.

The village is home to the Monastery of the Holy Cross, a beloved landmark dating back to the 4th century. Travelers can explore the monastery’s ornate frescoes and relic-filled chapel, gaining insights into the region’s deep-rooted Orthodox Christian traditions.

Beyond the monastery, Omodos boasts charming cobblestone streets, traditional wineries, and artisanal workshops where visitors can browse local handicrafts and sample the renowned Commandaria wine.

With its stunning natural setting and well-preserved heritage, Omodos offers a glimpse into the authentic soul of Cyprus.

Winery Experience

After exploring the historic Monastery of the Holy Cross in the village of Omodos, visitors can enjoy the local winemaking tradition with a visit to one of the region’s acclaimed wineries.

The tour includes a tasting of the winery’s finest vintages, allowing guests to sample the rich, full-bodied flavors that have made Cypriot wines renowned worldwide.

The experience also includes:

• An in-depth look at the winemaking process, from grape harvesting to fermentation and bottling.

• A guided tour of the winery’s facilities, offering a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the art of viticulture.

• The opportunity to purchase bottles of the winery’s signature wines to enjoy at home or share with friends.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Time Does the Tour End?

The tour starts at 8:00 AM but the end time is not specified. Based on the inclusions and duration of the activities, the tour likely concludes in the late afternoon or early evening.

Is the Tour Suitable for Children?

The tour may not be suitable for children. It’s not wheelchair accessible and not recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnant women, or those with serious medical conditions. The dress code also requires covered knees and shoulders.

Can I Take Photos During the Tour?

Yes, visitors are generally allowed to take photos during the tour. However, some sites may have restrictions on photography, so it’s best to check with the tour guide before taking pictures at each location.

What Languages Does the Guide Speak?

The tour guide speaks multiple languages, typically including English and the native language of the destination. Exact language capabilities are usually not specified, so it’s best to inquire about the guide’s fluency when booking the tour.

Is There Any Free Time During the Tour?

The tour includes a full-day itinerary with set activities. While there may not be dedicated free time, participants can explore sites at their own pace and have opportunities to wander during the lunch and winery visits.

Recap

This immersive tour offers a compelling blend of ancient ruins, medieval architecture, and local cultural experiences.

Explore the captivating Greco-Roman site of Kourion, marvel at the historic Kolossi Castle, wander the charming village of Omodos, and indulge in a delightful wine tasting paired with a traditional Cypriot lunch.

It’s an enriching journey that showcases the diverse heritage and natural beauty of Cyprus.